270
Genie Distribution WNET Manual v3
© Tieline Research Pty. Ltd. 2020
20.20
Configure Multicast Server Programs
Genie Distribution in multicast server mode supports sending 1, 2 or 3 mono or stereo streams, or 6
mono muliticast audio streams to unlimited endpoints over compatible IP networks. It is also
possible to use multicast client mode to simultaneously receive up to 6 separate multicast streams.
How Multicasting Works
Multicast transmissions are sent using a dedicated IP multicast address that looks similar to a
regular IP address and multicast subscribers request transmissions from this address. This unique
address allows multicast routers to identify multicast requests from a group of codecs interested in
a particular transmission and packets are replicated depending on demand. This can create large
demands on network bandwidth if the multicast group is significant in size.
As a result, only small sections of the internet are multicast enabled and many internet service
providers (ISPs) block multicast traffic over wide area networks. This restricts most multicast
broadcasts to private local area networks. Some ISPs provide quality of service (QoS) priority to
multicast streams for an increased service charge. You need to check with your ISP to find out what
multicast services, if any, are available over WANs.
Important Notes:
·
When a connection is dialed Tieline codecs normally use session data to configure
settings like the algorithm, connection bit rate and sample rate etc. Multicast
connections do not use session data and it is imperative that all codecs are configured
with the same connection settings prior to connecting, or they will not be able to join
multicast streaming sessions.
·
Automatic or fixed jitter buffer settings can be adjusted on individual client codecs as
required. There is no jitter buffer setting on the server codec because it never receives
audio packets.